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The Shiba Inu is one of Japan’s treasured dog breeds. Among the many Japanese dog breeds out there, the Shiba Inu is perhaps the most popular, thanks to the rise of cryptocurrencies like DOGE and SHIB. These dogs are also the smallest, which adds to their appeal for New Yorkers who want a small dog that fits their living arrangements.
While most Shiba Inu owners get their dogs from a breeder as puppies, adoption is also a viable method that can lead you to your next furry best friend. Given that New York is one of the most dog-loving states, there are many rescue organizations, including the ones that only work with Shiba Inus, as well as shelters that can help you adopt a Shiba Inu.
Our article will cover the adoption process for a Shiba Inu and take a closer look at this Japanese breed. Read on to learn how to adopt a Shiba Inu in New York and get to know this breed to determine your compatibility.
What Are Shiba Inus Like?
Shiba Inus have unique characteristics that make them stand out compared to other Japanese dog breeds, though there are some common grounds. Here’s everything you need to know about the Shiba Inu, from the breed’s personality and size to their health and grooming needs.
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What Is a Shiba Inu’s Temperament?Shiba Inus have an alert and vigilant temperament coming from their hunting lineage. They are fairly protective of their territory and owner, which means the Shiba Inu is a dog breed that requires immense socialization from a young age. They are also independent dogs that don’t always listen to their owner, which can create difficulties in training. While they can be difficult to care for at times, Shibas are loving dogs that bond strongly with their people. This affectionate nature compensates for the difficult parts of their temperament for many owners in New York, making them somewhat even-tempered considering all their quirks. |
How Active Are Shiba Inus?Shiba Inus pack a lot of energy and require daily exercise to benefit their health and well-being. These dogs should be walked for at least an hour every day to receive enough exercise. Central Park is perhaps the best place for a Shiba Inu to get the exercise they need in New York, so make sure to take advantage of it if you live nearby. Shiba Inus also have high mental stimulation needs. As working dogs, they can easily receive the enrichment they need, but as companion animals, Shiba Inus can quickly get bored of their routine. That’s why taking a Shiba Inu to explore new places and keeping their mind sharp with training, interactive games, and dog puzzles are essential to ensure they are content with life. |
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What Size Are Shiba Inus?
Shiba Inus are small-to-medium-sized. They weigh between 17 and 23 pounds, which is surprising for many as they don’t really show their weight. As for their height, Shiba Inus are fairly tall for a dog of this category in terms of size, standing 14 to 17 inches.
This height and weight range makes the Shiba an ideal dog breed for many in New York. As long as a Shiba Inu gets the daily exercise and mental enrichment they need, they can even adapt to living in a small studio. However, as with any other dog breed, a house with a yard is the best living arrangement for a Shiba Inu.
What Are a Shiba Inu’s Grooming Needs?
Shiba Inus have thick double coats that require regular grooming. The coats of these dogs should be brushed weekly, but more frequently during seasonal changes to manage shedding. Since they have thick coats that were built to endure freezing temperatures, brushing them often is necessary to improve air circulation in their coats – this will help ease hot New York summers.
Brushing the coat isn’t the only grooming need of a Shiba Inu, however. These dogs also need basic grooming, like cleaning their ears, trimming their nails as needed, and brushing their teeth. Dental care is particularly important with Shiba Inus, as they are prone to periodontal disease that can reduce their life quality significantly.
What Are Common Shiba Inu Health Issues?
Shiba Inus are among the healthiest dog breeds. They lead long lives without any obvious health issues for most of their lives. However, there are health conditions that affect these dogs like any other breed. The health problems associated with Shiba Inus include luxating patella, eye problems like glaucoma and cataracts, allergies, and hip dysplasia.
Before adopting a Shiba Inu, ask about the health of the dog, along with other adoption questions. Knowing the health history of the dog you’re adopting will enable you to better prepare for the future and set realistic expectations on what health problems might arise. Regular vet check-ups at one of New York’s many reputable veterinary clinics are also important in identifying any health problems early.
What Is a Shiba Inu’s Lifespan?
The Shiba Inu’s lifespan is between 13 and 16 years. Considering this range, it is safe to say that Shiba Inus are long-lived. However, as mentioned above, routine vet visits play an important role in ensuring a Shiba Inu’s health.
Are Shiba Inus Good With Other Animals or Kids?
A Shiba Inu that’s well-socialized and trained will get along well with unfamiliar dogs they meet during walks and with other dogs in the family. Any dog without proper socialization can view other dogs as a threat, which can lead to aggressiveness. Therefore, a Shiba’s relationship with other dogs depends on socialization.
With other animals, such as cats and prey animals, Shiba Inus typically have difficulties coexisting due to their high prey drive.
With all their traits, Shiba Inus are generally recommended more for families with older children. Although they can also get along well with younger children, these dogs tend to do better with older children who know how to interact with dogs. Still, if kids in the family know how to behave around dogs and your Shiba Inu is well-socialized, there’s no reason for them not to get along.
Are Shiba Inus Good for First-Time Dog Parents?
Shibas don’t make good dogs for first-time dog parents due to their independent minds and overall care needs. They have intense socialization and training needs that will be difficult for a novice owner to manage. There’s also a possibility that the Shiba Inu for adoption will already have existing behavioral issues, which will call for an experienced owner.
Due to these reasons, novice owners should look for another breed to adopt. In terms of appearance, the Pomeranian is a great alternative to the Shiba Inu for New Yorkers who are going to be a dog owner for the first time.
How Do You Adopt a Shiba Inu in New York?
There are several ways to find a Shiba Inu to adopt, such as contacting local animal shelters and rescue organizations. However, New York isn’t home to a lot of Shiba Inus, and it is rare for these dogs to end up in shelters. To increase your chances, you will need to broaden your search by checking online listings like ours at Dog Academy.
After finding a Shiba Inu for adoption, you can call and ask to meet the dog in person. This initial meeting will present the opportunity to get to know the Shiba Inu’s personality, which will ultimately enable you to decide whether or not to adopt the dog. During this process, you can also watch for red flags and learn more about the dog’s background to make the right choice.
If you’d like to adopt a Shiba Inu, you will need to follow the adoption process. Most adoption organizations and shelters require you to submit an application, which is followed by a home visit to check your living arrangements. If approved for adoption, you will then sign any relevant paperwork confirming that you’re adopting the dog and pay the adoption fee.
After all this, you will schedule a date and time to pick up your dog and begin this exciting new chapter in your life with a Shiba Inu by your side.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shiba Inu in New York?
The adoption cost for a Shiba Inu in New York is around $250 and $750, depending on the pricing of the shelter or the rescue and the age of the dog. In most cases, puppies and young adults have higher adoption fees. Many shelters and rescues also waive adoption fees for older Shibas and dogs with special needs, such as those requiring the use of a wheelchair.
How Should I Train a Shiba Inu?
Shiba Inus don’t have the best trainability. This is mainly due to their stubborn personalities. These dogs aren’t motivated by doing what they’re told at all, unlike many other working dog breeds. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t train a Shiba Inu. Although it might take more work than dog breeds with better trainability, you can teach a Shiba Inu a wide range of commands.
When training a Shiba Inu, following a reward-based approach is key. However, there isn’t one reward that motivates every Shiba Inu. After taking your newly adopted Shiba Inu home, observe how they react to different rewards. Most Shibas are motivated by a high-value treat, but others might find a quick play session or even praise a better reward than anything to eat.
Once you find what motivates your Shiba Inu the most, you will pretty much unlock the secret to training them. To master the training techniques and train your dog at home, take a look at our training resources. You will find various courses that can help you train your Shiba Inu, from basic obedience and leash training to fixing behavioral issues and eliminating separation anxiety.
Find the Right Shiba Inu in New York for You
Shiba Inus might have some expected traits like their stubborn personalities and energetic nature, but every dog has something unique about them. So, not all Shiba Inus will be a good fit, even though the breed as a whole is a good match for you.
When browsing different Shibas put up for adoption on Dog Academy, take a close look at each dog’s description and details. The history of the dog, exact size, and personality listed in the description will help you get an idea of whether or not to proceed with an initial meet-and-greet, which is also essential in ensuring you get the right dog.
By observing the Shiba Inu’s personality in person and speaking to the foster dog parent or the staff at the shelter/rescue, you will know enough to determine if you’re about to bring home the right dog.
